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If you've made the dreaded mistake of getting behind the wheel after a few too many and see the cherry red lights flashing in the rear-view mirror, relax. There are steps that you can take to help minimize your risk of spending the night in jail.

First: Get the insurance card and the registration out of the glovebox. Then get your driver's license out of your wallet and be prepared to hand them over all at once to the police officer.

Second: As the cop approaches the car, roll the window down enough to comfortably hand over your license and registration, but not enough to allow them to lean their head in.

Third: This is the most important step. You've already laid your groundwork, but now you have the first impression. You don't want to do anything or say anything that will lead to any suspicion. If they ask you why you've been pulled over, tell them the reason. If you were speeding, say that you were speeding and offer nothing else and offer your license and registration. If the reason for being pulled over was due to swerving, mention you crossed lanes when trying to reach for a cd you dropped and apologize. Keep it brief and say it slow to avoid slurring your speech. Also keep your head forward and try to blow air out the right part of your mouth.

If they turn and walk away you should be home free, but if they ask, "where, have you been tonight?" let them know. If they follow it up with have you been drinking, "Had 2 drinks, I was the DD tonight and am headed home."

Fourth: Assuming all those have failed and you're asked to take a field sobriety test, that's a judgement call. If you're borderline on whether or not you can pass, refuse the test, offer no further information at all, and be prepared to make your one phone call to your lawyer.

Learn more about this author, Greg Rakas.
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